Thursday, May 22, 2025

MIT Innovates by Converting Plants into Sustainable Urban Lighting Solutions

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MIT researchers are pioneering a groundbreaking approach to sustainable lighting by embedding specialized nanoparticles in common houseplants, transforming them into rechargeable lamps. This innovative technique allows plants to absorb light using blue LEDs and emit a soft glow for nearly an hour, significantly improving upon previous methods that relied on enzymes. By testing five different plant species, the team demonstrated that the leaves maintained their health while effectively serving as light sources. This advancement not only holds potential for practical applications in urban settings but also signifies a shift towards integrating living plants into our technological landscape. Ultimately, the research aims to reduce dependence on traditional electrical systems and promote a more sustainable and eco-friendly future, where plants contribute actively to enhancing quality of life.

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